Liverpool have been encouraged by the outstanding start made by new signing Jeremy Jacquet, with the 21-year-old already attracting praise after arriving from Rennes as the club’s long-term replacement for Ibrahima Konate.
Konate left Liverpool for Real Madrid on a free transfer last summer after establishing himself as an influential defender during his time in the Premier League.
Jacquet was brought in to fill that void, but his early performances have prompted suggestions that Liverpool may have found more than a direct replacement. Local coverage has highlighted the French defender’s composure and ability to adapt during a period of transition for the club.
The Liverpool Echo described Jacquet as one of the few Liverpool players who could leave Anfield with his head held high after Saturday’s match against Fulham.
The newspaper singled out his composure as his most impressive quality.
“Jacquet’s greatest strength is his calmness,” it said. “To adapt so easily within a team going through a transitional period, while also replacing Ibrahima Konate, is a remarkable achievement for a player who turned 21 this summer.”
It added: “He is much better than Konate was at the same age and, from what we have seen, he has everything required to become a great player.”
Jacquet’s performances have also been reflected in his statistical standing. With a rating of 7.21, he is the highest-rated player aged 21 or under in the Premier League so far this season.
His influence has not been limited to defending. This Is Anfield said Jacquet had impressed with his defensive strength while also making attacking contributions that exceeded those of midfielders Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai.
The report also praised the Frenchman’s composure in possession, an area it suggested Liverpool had lacked with Konate in the team.
According to This Is Anfield, Jacquet has shown the temperament to remain calm under pressure and make effective decisions when controlling the ball. Those qualities have quickly made him an important part of Liverpool’s side and strengthened the belief that he can become a key player for the club.
